Bikepacking the Wild West: Must-Visit Remote Cycling Routes

For cyclists who crave adventure, solitude, and the thrill of the unknown, the American West offers some of the most epic bikepacking routes in the world. From high-altitude desert trails to rugged mountain passes, these remote routes take riders deep into the wilderness, far from civilization. If you’re ready for a multi-day cycling journey through some of the wildest landscapes in the USA, here are the must-visit remote bikepacking routes in the Wild West.

1. The Western Wildlands Route (Montana to Arizona)
Distance: 2,700 miles
Difficulty: Extreme
Best Time to Ride: Late Spring to Early Fall

The Western Wildlands Route is one of the longest and most remote bikepacking routes in North America, stretching from the Canadian border in Montana to the deserts of Arizona. The route passes through towering mountain ranges, deep canyons, and vast deserts, with long stretches of rough gravel roads and little access to water. Riders must be completely self-sufficient, as resupply points can be more than 100 miles apart.

2. The Oregon Timber Trail (Oregon)
Distance: 670 miles
Difficulty: Difficult
Best Time to Ride: Summer

Designed for true backcountry explorers, the Oregon Timber Trail runs through some of the most rugged and remote forests in the Pacific Northwest. This route features a mix of singletrack, forest roads, and steep climbs through the Cascade Mountains. With limited resupply points and challenging terrain, this ride is best suited for experienced bikepackers with solid navigation skills.

3. The Kokopelli Trail (Colorado to Utah)
Distance: 142 miles
Difficulty: Challenging
Best Time to Ride: Spring & Fall

The Kokopelli Trail is one of the most iconic bikepacking routes in the West, linking Fruita, Colorado, to Moab, Utah. The trail takes riders through stunning desert landscapes, red rock canyons, and remote backcountry passes. Expect tough climbs, fast technical descents, and limited water sources—this is a true test of endurance in the arid Southwest.

4. The Arizona Trail (Arizona)
Distance: 800 miles
Difficulty: Extreme
Best Time to Ride: Spring & Fall

For those who love rugged desert riding, the Arizona Trail is a bucket-list bikepacking route. This trail runs from the Utah border to Mexico, crossing remote deserts, deep canyons, and high mountains. The route includes some brutal hike-a-bike sections and limited resupply points, but the reward is an unforgettable journey through some of the most dramatic landscapes in the West.

5. The Great Basin Route (Nevada & Utah)
Distance: 500+ miles
Difficulty: Extreme
Best Time to Ride: Spring & Fall

If you’re looking for true solitude, the Great Basin Route delivers. This high-desert ride takes cyclists through the heart of Nevada’s remote wilderness, where you might go days without seeing another person. Expect rough gravel roads, limited water sources, and vast open landscapes stretching as far as the eye can see. This is a ride for those who embrace the challenges of complete isolation.

6. The Idaho Hot Springs Route (Idaho)
Distance: 500 miles
Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
Best Time to Ride: Summer

This unique bikepacking route combines adventure cycling with relaxation, as it passes by dozens of natural hot springs hidden in the Idaho backcountry. The ride includes steep mountain passes, fast-flowing gravel roads, and remote forest trails, making it a diverse and rewarding challenge. After a long day of riding, soaking in a natural hot spring is the perfect way to recover.

7. The Black Canyon Trail (Arizona)
Distance: 80 miles
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Best Time to Ride: Winter & Spring

Located just north of Phoenix, the Black Canyon Trail is an epic desert singletrack route that winds through rugged canyons, towering saguaro cacti, and remote plateaus. Though shorter than some other routes on this list, the technical nature of the trail makes it a challenging multi-day ride, perfect for those looking for a mix of endurance and skill.

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